Shimano

The Japanese manufacturer Shimano specializes in bike components. However, its branded products are also to be found in fishing, surfboarding and rowing. Now leader of the pack in cycling, Shimano has seen the light of day in 1921, designed a derailleur in 1956 and joined the pros in 1973.

Interesting fact: After all those years and evolution, the business remains the hands of the same family. Shozaburo Shimano, who is the actual president of Shimano, is the grandson of the company’s founder.